New York Public Library Winter Engagement Session | Mariella + Josh
New York Public Library | New York, NY
Mariella and Josh’s engagement session felt like the perfect full-circle moment—just one year out from their wedding at The Park Savoy, we spent a chilly winter afternoon capturing their love at the New York Public Library and nearby Bryant Park. With its grand architecture and classic New York charm, the library was a meaningful spot for Mariella, not just because of her love for books, but also because her grandfather was a carpenter who worked on the library’s intricate woodwork. It was the perfect setting for Mariella and Josh since their love story started with a lost phone in the Seton Hall library.
How They Met
Mariella and Josh first met as freshmen at Seton Hall University when they had an English class together. Josh was too nervous to approach Mariella at the time, and their paths didn’t cross again until two years later. One day in the library, Josh realized he had left his phone in an Uber and needed someone’s phone to call the driver. Mariella offered hers, and that small moment led to months of persistence from Josh before Mariella finally agreed to let him take her out for coffee. That coffee date turned into six years together, countless memories, and an unforgettable proposal.
The Proposal
Josh planned the perfect proposal at a rooftop bar in NYC where they had one of their first dates. Mariella had a feeling a proposal was coming soon, but Josh gave her no hints about when. When the moment arrived, it was a complete surprise—one that was made even more special when her friends popped out to capture photos and her family arrived in the city to celebrate with them.
Their New York Public Library Engagement Session
Spending time with Mariella and Josh, it’s easy to see how well they complement each other. Josh loves Mariella for her bold personality, quick humor, and bringing an unapologetically fun energy to their relationship, while Mariella loves Josh’s meticulous attention to detail – his hangers are methodically spaced out, his shoes are polished to perfection, and he measures his espresso beans to the tenth of a milligram for the most delicious cup of coffee. Together, they balance each other out so well and always keep each other laughing. Between their busy schedules—Josh working 9-5 and Mariella as an overnight NICU nurse—they always find time for each other, whether that’s grabbing a quick coffee between shifts or planning their next travel adventure in search of the best food.
Their Park Savoy Wedding
As they count down to their wedding day, the excitement is already building. Mariella is most looking forward to the moment the Seton Hall church doors open, and she walks down the aisle to Josh—the place where their story first began. Josh, on the other hand, can’t wait for the moment he sees Mariella in her dress for the first time, knowing that everything they’ve planned and dreamed about will be worth it.
Their engagement session was just the beginning of capturing their love story, and I already know their wedding day will be one for the books. February 2026 can’t come soon enough!
